#China #Xi Jinping #Tianjin #Shanghai Cooperation Organization

Strengthening the Shanghai Cooperation Organization: China's Commitment to a Shared Future

As the upcoming Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) approaches, to be held in Tianjin on August 31 and September 1, 2025, President Xi Jinping's attendance marks a significant moment. This event signifies China’s commitment to boosting cooperation among SCO member states, reinforcing the organization’s goals and aspirations for a shared future.

The SCO, founded in 2001 in Shanghai by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, has expanded into a pivotal transregional organization. Currently comprising ten full members, two observer countries, and 14 dialogue partners, its evolution reflects the growing importance of regional cooperation.

Recent Achievements and Initiatives

One of the most promising developments this year is the launch of the first China-Central Asia cargo train from Tianjin, which shipped 50 containers of auto parts, machinery, building materials, and electronics to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This direct connection further enhances the international logistics channels between northern China and SCO member states. It injects renewed vigor into regional economic and trade collaboration, embodying the SCO’s vision of a cohesive economic space.

The upcoming SCO summit in Tianjin is particularly noteworthy, as it represents the fifth time that China has hosted this significant event. Over 20 country leaders and heads of ten international organizations are expected to attend. It underscores China's ongoing leadership role in promoting constructive dialogue and development within the region.

A Unified Response to Global Challenges

The SCO has united its member states around shared developmental goals and intertwined destinies. Key areas of focus include enhancing energy and food security, stabilizing supply chains, and combating climate change. Cooperation in security remains the cornerstone of the organization, where collective efforts against terrorism, extremism, and drug trafficking are paramount.

Moreover, through joint military exercises and dialogue mechanisms, the SCO has systematically enhanced its capabilities to address security risks in a dynamic global environment. The organization's pragmatic and mutually beneficial cooperation has played a crucial role in solidifying its development trajectory over the years.

Infrastructure Development and Economic Integration

Significant strides have been made to improve connectivity throughout Eurasia, a vital aspect of the SCO's development strategy. Infrastructure projects, such as the ongoing China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and the newly operational pipelines—including gas and oil pipelines connecting China with Central Asian nations—are pivotal for regional integration. The establishment of an extensive network embracing roads, pipelines, and railways further fortifies ties between member states.

In 2024, trade volume between China and other SCO members reached an impressive 3.65 trillion yuan (approximately 511 billion USD), dramatically increasing from amounts recorded at the organization’s inception. This highlights the SCO’s evolving role as a critical platform for economic collaboration and shared prosperity.

Vision for the Future: A 'Big Family'

President Xi Jinping’s vision for the SCO emphasizes unity and mutual support among member states. He famously referred to the organization as a 'big family,' underscoring the importance of inclusivity and open dialogue, contrasting with contrarian and ideologically exclusive global club formations. Under Xi’s leadership, China has prioritized the SCO in its foreign policy, reaffirming its dedication to fostering a safe, stable, and prosperous environment for its neighbors.

As Xi stated, “The SCO is our home,” promoting the idea of creating a closer-knit community with a shared future. The vision not only seeks to strengthen trust and mutual benefits but also to uphold the unique spirit of the SCO, characterized by consultation, respect for cultural diversity, and the pursuit of common development.

Conclusion

As the SCO prepares for the summit in Tianjin, the commitment to building a closer community reflects China’s strategic approach to regional integration and cooperation. This endeavor not only enhances economic connectivity but also fortifies security and stability across Eurasia, paving the way for a brighter collective future. The SCO stands not merely as a political alliance but as a testament to what unified efforts can achieve in the face of complex global challenges.